Thursday, December 15, 2016

Surigao Norte underlines local investment code to attract more investors

By Susil D. Ragas

SURIGAO CITY, Surigao del Norte, Dec. 15 (PIA) – The provincial government of Surigao del Norte underlined its local investment code on top of the economic and livelihood, social services and environment programs for the year 2017 during the HEALS Plus Convergence Meeting held recently at the PGO Conference Hall, this city.

Provincial Information Center Officer Mary Jul Escalante disclosed that it was discussed during the said meeting to review the Investment Code of the province to attract, promote and encourage domestic and foreign investments in the province.

She said that Local Investment and Incentive Code was also discussed for each municipality to captivate more investors and to generate more jobs, increase income, hasten social progress in the municipality, and contribute to the overall economic growth of the province.

While on social services, Escalante said that the province will prioritize the welfare of the senior citizens, children/youth, persons with disability (PWDs) and Indigenous People (IP) through skills enhancement training; values formation; entrepreneurial, leadership and basic business management; among others.

Esclante further said that programs for environment are also underway in coordination with different national line agencies. (PIC-PGO/PIA-Surigao del Norte)

Surigao Sur to host CRAM 2017

By Nida Grace P. Barcena

TANDAG CITY, Surigao del Sur, Dec. 15 (PIA) – The Department of Education (DepEd) Surigao del Sur Division disclosed during its initial coordination meeting conducted on Monday that the province of Surigao del Sur will be the host for the upcoming Caraga Regional Athletic Meet (CRAM) set on February 2017.

The different committee chairpersons and members were introduced by DepEd Surigao del Sur Division Education Program Coordinator Antonio Salazar during the conference. The functions, duties and responsibilities of each created committee were also defined and elaborated.

Along this line, the provincial government headed by governor Vicente Pimentel, Jr. has already committed to support the hosting of the huge and historic event to be held in this city.

The governor confirmed to give financial assistance to DepEd amounting to P5M, said Provincial Treasurer’s Office chief Crispa Geli.

It can be recalled that Surigao del Sur was the host of CRAM for two consecutive years on 2014 and 2015. (PIA-Surigao del Sur)

NFA Surigao Norte offers ‘Open Sale’

By Susil D. Ragas

SURIGAO CITY, Surigao del Norte, Dec. 15 (PIA) – The provincial office of the National Food Authority (NFA) Surigao del Norte offered an “Open Sale” of rice (Thailand and Vietnam rice) to all NFA licensed Grains and Businessmen.

According to NFA provincial manager Gleen P. Echin, all business rice retailers, wholesalers, millers or warehousemen can buy the NFA rice at P22.50 and P25.00 pesos per kilo and can sell at a suggested price of P27.00 per kilo.

She said that as a way of making friendly business, even those newly registered NFA establishments can immediately buy rice individually and not by group.

Echin announced that starting December 9, all grains businessmen in Siargao Island can deposit their payment through Development Bank of the Philippines (DBP) Dapa Branch.

For interested businessmen, simply visit the NFA office at Km. 10, Surigao City, Tan Warehouse in Bilang-Bilang, Surigao City, San Jose town in Dinagat Islands province, and Dapa, Siargao Island, Surigao del Norte or call NFA hotline numbers at 09328681554 or 09178258302. (NFA-Surigao del Norte/PIA-Surigao del Norte)

DA chief turns over checks to 3 SurSur LGUs

By Nida Grace P. Barcena

TANDAG CITY, Surigao del Sur, Dec. 15 (PIA) – Three towns in Surigao del Sur, namely, Cantilan, San Miguel and Bayabas received each a check during the recent visit of Department of Agriculture (DA) Secretary Emmanuel “Manny” Piñol in Surigao del Sur.

According to Elmer Ayad, of Department of Agriculture, Cantilan town received a total of P1M fund for purchase of rice planter with rotator (P500,000) and for the rehabilitation of solar drier (P500,000.00). For San Miguel town, they received P400,000 to fund the Moscuvado Sugarcane Processing. Also, Bayabas town was given P500,000 for the construction of Multi-Purpose Development Pavement (MPDP).

Aside from the checks, Secretary Piñol also said that there will be 80 units of power tillers and mechanical dryers with a capacity of 250 bags per day set to be delivered.

DA chief is eyeing on how to boost the agricultural production both in farm and aqua marine areas in this province. (NGPB/PIA-Surigao del Sur)

Butuan SPED Center reaps awards in RSPC 2016

By Elysa Velle L. Garcia

BUTUAN CITY, Dec. 15 (PIA) – Campus journalists from the Butuan Special Education (SPED) Center of this city had garnered 15 several awards both in individual and group events during the recently concluded Regional Schools Press Conference (RSPC) 2016 held in San Francisco, Agusan del Sur.

The five-day campus journalism event gathered in one reputable competition the young talented pupils and students who have exceptional skills and competence in news/feature/sports writing, broadcasting, photojournalism, scriptwriting, editorial cartooning, collaborative desktop, copyreading and headline writing.

According to coach Flyn Gerald Labajo of Butuan SPED Center, for the individual events – English category, Marco Raphael Liceralde clinched the 6th place for Science and Health feature writing while Elysa Velle Garcia and Chris Adrielle Abrea returned home as 5th placer in copyreading and headline writing and 7th placer in news writing, respectively. He added that for the Filipino category, Cielo Marie Badar ranked 7th place in Science and Health feature writing.

In group contests, winners for the script writing and radio broadcasting-English category include J U Kirsten de Gracia (2nd place, Best Anchor); Athena Gail Ampoon (3rd place, Best in Infomercial); Hannah Theresa Dorico (4th place, Best in Technical Application); Team Award (5th Place, Best in News Script); and Marie Angela Grace Aala – Director (4th place, Best in Radio Broadcast).

There are also those who excelled in the Filipino category for group events, and they are Maria Cassandra Ericka Apostol (3rd place, Best Anchor); Joanna Margarette Barsana (4th place, Best in Technical Application); Team Award (5th place, Best in News Script); Team Award (6th place, Best in Infomercial); Ma. Nicole Damiar – Director ( 4th place, Best in Radio Broadcast).

Meanwhile, the collaborative and desktop publishing (Filipino) group bagged the 2nd place award. Among them who put forth the effort and ability are Sophia Marie Lazarte (Lay-out Artist); Jessa Guiral (News Writer); Neyza Hope Indonto (Editorial Writer); Josephine Rosette Ramirez (Feature Writer); Klein Timothy Magallano (Editorial Cartooning); Jayzen Seth Ezriel Panaligan (Sports Writer); Shiloh Ruth Sasuman (Photojournalist).

All the winners, having gone through the division competitions, received medals during the awarding ceremonies.

Butuan City Division ranked 2nd Runner-up (Elementary level) in the overall ranking among the 12 competing divisions. (Butuan SPED Center/PIA-Caraga)

Feature: NPA rebels quit from the revolutionary movement

AGUSAN DEL SUR, Dec. 15 (PIA) – Significant number of New People’s Army (NPA) surrenderees were recorded in this province, according to an official from the 26th Infantry Battalion, Philippine Army.

Lieutenant Colonel Rommel Pagayon, commanding officer of 26IB, Philippine Army underscored that these surenderees used to live in fear and hunger while they were far away from their families and loved ones. Their lives were burdened on series of hardships and always on evasion. They used to be on the other side of the mainstream society, fighting against the government. “But things were changed when they laid down their arms and were welcomed back to the folds of the government,” he said.

Pagayon further emphasized that with the initiatives and efforts of the Philippine Army to neutralize the left-leaning groups, several NPA rebels have already surrendered and returned to the mainstream society.

It can be recalled that last July 31, 2016, Yoyoy Bat-aw and Rey Pasado Carlos alias ‘Rex’, both from Guerilla Front 34 came down from the mountains of Loreto, Agusan del Sur and surrendered with their M1 Garand rifle and KG9. Also, on November 10 of same year, Wengweng Gumansel of Guerilla Front 89 and Erwin Mansumangkay alias ‘RR’ of Guerilla Front 88 gave up their arms and hoped to live a better and safer life. They brought along with them three high-powered firearms (1 AR18 rifle, 1 carbine and 1 Garand rifle) to attest their sincerity in surrendering to the government that they once challenged.

“We used to run for our lives if our masses inform us of the presence of the army in their community, for we were afraid to die. We walked on the mountains even at the middle of the night or intense heat of the day with little food just to evade them,” Gumansel said as he tearfully recalls his past experience in the revolutionary movement.

In August  2016, Jason Istar Behing, 28 years old and Jeffry Azarcon Maca, 28 years old, both members of SPP21C, Guerilla Front Committee 21 (GFC21), North Eastern Mindanao Regional Committee (NEMRC), voluntarily surrendered with two M16 rifle with bandolier and three magazines to 29IB, Philippine Army in Barangay Del Pilar, Cabadbaran City, Agusan del Norte.

Also, in Bayugan City, Agusan del Sur, another member of the NPA who surrendered to the 3rd Special Forces Battalion was presented to Agusan del Sur Governor Adolph Edward Plaza on November 9, 2016. The rebel returnee also surrendered his M16 rifle to the government.

Ricky Salinas Bocales, known as ‘Ka Javelan’, 25 years old of Brgy. La Purisima, Prosperidad, Agusan del Sur also realized that he was deceived by the wrong ideology. According to him, he was with the NPA for four years and just like the other surrenderees, he also experienced a hard life because their group was often moving from one place to another with limited food.

It was learned that the aforementioned surrenderees decided to quit the rebel group due to the NPA's broken promises. Accordingly, they used their firearms in extorting small and large business firms and instill fear to the minds of the people. They also expressed their gratitude to the army who helped them live a new life.

The surrender was made possible through the successful negotiations of the 26th Infantry (Ever Onward) Battalion and the continuing effect of the resolution of the different issues in the communities through the Bayanihan Team Activities (BTA) in collaboration with the municipal local government units (LGUs) and provincial government of of Agusan del Sur.

These former rebels (FRs) are now enrolled to the Comprehensive Local Integration Program (CLIP) to assist them to live a peaceful life and become productive citizens.

With the onset of attaining just and lasting peace, the 401st Brigade with all its battalions is gaining its ground in winning the hearts and minds of the people and bridging resolutions to their concerns which will eventually lead to the realization of its mission as stated “to help the LGU maintain an environment conducive for sustainable development and a just and lasting peace by year end 2016.” (26IB/401st Brigade, Phil. Army/Jennifer P. Gaitano/PIA-Agusan del Sur)

Wednesday, December 14, 2016

Butuan dad considers children as the most important sector

By Jennifer P. Gaitano

BUTUAN CITY, Dec. 14 (PIA) – Government officials and employees, and guests from the private sector heard and witnessed the State of the Children's Report of mayor Ronnie Vicente Lagnada here on Tuesday.

City councilor Rema Burdeos, Sangguniang Panlalawigan (SP) Committee on Family, Women and Children Welfare/co-chair of Butuan City Council for the Welfare of Children (BCCWC) welcomed all the participants and guests, and emphasized that the city government gives due attention in the provision of programs and services to the children in the different barangays.

In his report, he underlined that the children are the most important sector in the society. “We want to give them what they deserve and allow them to exercise their rights so they will grow and live responsibly in the community,” he said.

Lagnada added that the government is doing its best efforts in giving due consideration to their needs and give them a brighter future through programs and services that directly address their welfare.

The good mayor also cited that all sectors of the society especially the marginalized sectors should be included in all the activities, programs and services of the government to attain sustainable peace and development in the city.

He further stressed that the government is ensuring the continuous provision of health and nutrition programs to the children.

Meanwhile, mayor Lagnada with other local officials also awarded of the Top 3 Most Active Members of the Butuan City Council for the Welfare of Children (BCCWC), and officially launched the Search of 2016 Most Child-Friendly Barangays. (JPG/PIA-Caraga)

LGU-Butuan recognizes Most Child-Friendly Barangays

By Jennifer P. Gaitano

BUTUAN CITY, Dec. 14 (PIA) – The city government here has recognized the efforts of the different barangays in the implementation of the programs and services for the welfare of children.

Of the 86 barangays, 10 were awarded as Most Child-Friendly Barangays during the State of the Children’s Report of mayor Ronnie Vicente Lagnada on Tuesday.

The Top 3 Most Child-Friendly Barangays for 2015 are the following: 1st place - Brgy. Baan Km. 3 (received P50,000.00 cash prize with personalized plaque and trophe); 2nd place - Brgy. Doongan (received P35,000.00 and plaque); and 3rd place - Brgy. San Vicente (received P15,000.00 and plaque).

Other barangays that were among the Most Child-Friendly Barangays include Obrero, Baobaoan, Bayanihan, Golden Ribbon, Bonbon, Los Angeles, and Pagatpatan.

Mayor Lagnada thanked them for their hard work and dedication in doing their functions in their respective barangays. (JPG/PIA-Caraga)

DOH Caraga strengthens #IwasPaputok campaign

By Nora L. Molde

BUTUAN CITY, Dec. 13 (PIA) – The Department of Health (DOH) Caraga during its media forum held Tuesday urges the public to opt for other strategies in lieu of the usual fireworks display, which cause injuries to the community during the celebration of Christmas and New Year.

According to DOH Caraga regional director Dr. Jose R. Llacuna, Jr., the 'Oplan: Iwas Paputok' is an annual campaign of the DOH against the use of firecrackers and fireworks to prevent injuries and deaths brought about by these during the holiday season. This year's campaign is anchored on the theme, "Iwas Paputok, Fireworks display ang Patok! Makiisa sa Fireworks Display sa inyong lugar."

Llacuna said the campaign will target children and parents, and that media partners will help contribute in the widest dissemination of the campaign because of their programs and expertise.

However, the DOH Caraga official also admitted that there are still individual who continues to use firecrackers, in that case, he advises if an injury due to firecrackers occurs, the wounds must be immediately washed with clean running water until visible dirt and gunpowder residue is gone and to seek medical attention for proper evaluation.

As per DOH national data, there was an 8 percent increase on the number of firecracker-related injury cases from 2014 to 2015 with 10-14 years old (33 percent) as the most affected group.

In Caraga region, firecracker injuries were remarkably high in 2015 with 81 cases compared to 2014 with only 18. In 2014, Surigao del Sur ranked the most number of firecracker injuries, while Agusan del Sur had 18 cases in 2015 and was highest in the tally. (NCLM/GMCC/PIA-Caraga)

Tuesday, December 13, 2016

AgNor holds reintegration activity for illegal drug surrenderers

By Nora L. Molde

BUTUAN CITY, Dec. 13 (PIA) – Some 600 illegal drug surrenderers of Santiago town in the province of Agusan del Norte are expected to receive a ‘Pamaskong Handog’ from the provincial government on December 20.

According to OIC provincial director Ellen Vee Chua of the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) Agusan del Norte, different national and local government offices will be providing services to the event. A medical and dental mission will also be conducted, it was learned.

“Santiago town was chosen as the pilot local government unit for the ‘Pamaskong Handog’ because of its high surrender target rate," she said.

The event will encourage the surrenderers to fully cooperate with the programs of the government, Chua said.

By reintegrating them to the society through the availment of the services during the event like medical and dental services, skills and livelihood trainings/orientations from the different line agencies and the provincial government of the Agusan del Norte will also help boost the spirits of these surrenderers, Chua added.

Chua, further said that the event would also remind and instill in the mind of the surrenderers that the present administration still looks after their welfare and aims to reintegrate them to the society. (NCLM/PIA-Agusan del Norte)

25 forest rangers undergo forest, biodiversity protection system training in SurSur town

By Nida Grace P. Barcena

TANDAG CITY, Surigao del Sur, Dec. 13 (PIA) - Some 25 forest rangers of CENRO (Community Environment and Natural Resources Office) Lianga together with the enforcement staff participated in the Landscape and Wildlife Indicator (LAWIN) Forest and Biodiversity Protection System (FBPS) Phase II training held recently at Kansilad Beach Resort, Barangay Ganayon, Lianga, Surigao del Sur.

According to Jun Mark Bernaldez of DENR-Surigao del Sur, the participants were oriented and trained with the basics of LAWIN tools.

“They use LAWIN applications such as Cyber Tracker and Spatial Monitoring and Reporting Tool (SMART) in patrolling and reporting via web-based system,” Bernalez said.

He added that the LAWIN patrollers have already a background on forest and environmental laws since the activity requires technical knowledge and skills on the conduct of LAWIN patrol.

During the activity, the participants were also provided with gadgets such as cellular phones, caps and watches to be used in their patrolling. (PIA-Surigao del Sur)

DAREA spearheads feeding program to La Paz undernourished children

By Rechel D. Besonia

LA PAZ, Agusan del Sur, Dec. 13 (PIA) - In celebration of the Government Employees Week, the Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR) Provincial Office here recently conducted a feeding program led by the DAR Employees Association (DAREA) to 150 identified children of Agrarian Reform Beneficiaries (ARB) held at La Paz Central Elementary School.

The DAR employees were welcomed by a message from Master Teacher II Imelda G. Perez and dance presentation by the recipient students of LPCES. They are joined together by the LPCES faculty and staff during the feeding proper.

“I am thankful that this feeding program was finally realized through the support of DAR Agusan del Sur management. We are happy that this is done in La Paz considering the number of undernourished children of our Agrarian Reform Beneficiaries,” said DAREA President Ferdinand Arroza.

For District Incharge of La Paz Central Elementary School, Melchesidec C. Dubduban, the generous act of the department is very commendable. “We feel very happy that of all the schools in Agusan del Sur, we are the lucky once to be chosen. Our population ranges from 1,500 students and mostly are undernourished. Sometimes, these are the reasons of tardiness and absenteeism,” he expressed.

“We will always remember your good deeds. I salute you for doing this activity,” Dubduban added.

The feeding program was part of the mandate of the National Government Employees Association to any sectoral group or organization in the government agencies to conduct social services, tree planting activities or forum as support to the Government Employees Week celebrated every first week of December. (DAR-Agusan de Sur/PIA-Agusan del Sur)

Cebuano News: Kapin dos mil ka pamilyang OFW sa Caraga miapil sa 2016 OFW Family Day

Ni Regal Oribia

DAKBAYAN SA BUTUAN, Dis. 13 (PIA) - Bisan dili maayo ang panahon, miabot sa 2,656 ka partisipante ang mitambong sa gihimong tinuig nga selebrasyon nga OFW Family Day didto sa Lope A. Asis Memorial Gymnasium sa dakbayan sa Bayugan bag-uhay pa lamang nga adunay tema nga, “Pamilyang OFW: Matatag na Pamilya sa Panahon ng Pagbabago."

Sa mensahe ni Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA) administrator Hans Leo Cacdac pinaagi kang OWWA Caraga regional director Samuel Madrid siya miingon nga, “Isa lamang itong pagpapatunay na oo, ang gobyernong ito ay may 'pakialam' sa damdamin ng bawat pamilyang OFW at sa araw na ito isang malaking kasiyahan na makasama kayong lahat.”

Sa maong selebrasyon, gihimo usab ang usa ka OFW Dance Competition diin unom ka mga entrante ang misalmot gikan pa sa nagkalaing-laing OFW Family Circles sa tibuok rehiyon. Nakuha ang unang ganti sa ADKIN OFW and Dependents Association nga gikan Surigao del Sur gisundan dayon kini sa United OFW ug Dependents sa dakbayan sa Bislig. Nakuha usab ang ikatulong ganti sa United OFW and Dependents Association sa Carmen, Agusan del Norte.

Ubay-ubay usab ang nidaog sa raffle draw nga naay ganti nga 5,000 ug mga appliances sama sa microwave, bisikleta ug uban pang mga electronics nga mga butang, usa ka sakong bugas ug mga groceries.

Nagdugang pud ug gamay'ng kalingawan ngadto sa mga batan-on ang LBC ug ang Philhealth-Caraga. Naa usab free body massage, facial massage ug haircut ang gihatag ngadto sa mga partisipante sa mga gusto magparelaks.

Naghatag usab sa ilang mga serbisyo ngadto sa mga OFWs ang uban pang sangay sa gobyerno sama sa Pag-IBIG ug PhilHealth. Kauban usab sa maong aktibidad ang mga corporate partners sama sa Camella Homes Butuan, Ford Butuan, Hyundai-Butuan, Motortrade Bayugan, Tanduay Distillers, Inc., Filinvest, Insular Life Philippines, Sunlife Insurance, B-Meg ug Caraga Association of Recruitment Agencies (CARA).

Sa pakigpulong ni Dir. Madrid, iyang gibatbat kung unsa ka importante ang partnership sa mga local governments units sa mas epektibo nga paghatag ug serbisyo ngadto sa katawhan. Nagpasalamat usab siya ngadto sa mga PESO managers ug municipal mayors ug sa mga OFWs sa pagtambong sa gihimong selebrasyon. (OWWA-Caraga/PIA-Caraga)

Monday, December 12, 2016

NYC chair to meet IP youth in Caraga region

By Venus L. Garcia

BUTUAN CITY, Dec. 12 (PIA) – As the new National Youth Commission (NYC) chairperson and chief executive officer, and in support to the social agenda of President Rodrigo Duterte’s administration of bringing the government to the grassroots, Undersecretary Cariza Seguerra will be visiting places in Mindanao, specifically in Caraga region slated on December 12-13, 2016, to reach out the young Caraganons through consultations and to listen to their concerns and suggestions in achieving the agency’s mandate.

“It is necessary that the youth’s voice be heard, particularly the indigenous people (IP) and Moro youth so that youth development policies and programs are appropriately formulated and immediately addressed,” underscored Usec. Seguerra.

The consultative visit dubbed ‘Konsultahang Kabataan’ aims to gather and identify issues and concerns directly and indirectly affecting the youth in their respective communities which will be part of the Filipino Youth Development Agenda anchored on the Social Development Agenda of the present administration.

Apart from Usec. Seguerra’s visit in Butuan City, Agusan del Norte and Surigao del Norte (Lumad areas in Mindanao), all in Caraga region, she is also expected to interface with the youth in the Moro areas in Mindanao on December 19-23, 2016 and in Cordillera region and Aeta areas on December 26-29, 2016.

The NYC is mandated to craft a national blueprint of youth development that is geared towards addressing the challenges that the youth encountered. This important responsibility of NYC is highlighted by the fact that the Phiippines is a young country where the youth, aged 15-30 years old, comprises 28 percent of the total population of 93.34M per National Statistics Office (NSO) 2010 data. (VLG/PIA-Caraga)

DTI holds LIIC briefing to Surigao Norte town

By Susil D. Ragas

SURIGAO CITY, Surigao del Norte, Dec. 12 (PIA) – The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) recently conducted a briefing on the formulation of the Local Investments and Incentives Code (LIIC) to the local government unit of Sison held at the town's session hall.

Sison Mayor Karissa R. Fetalvero-Paronia said they have prioritized the crafting of the said investments and incentives code in order to attract private sector investments in the municipality that will hopefully create more employment opportunities.

Rodrigo R. Matabaran of DTI Surigao del Norte discussed during the briefing the objectives, benefits and processes of investment promotion, the legal basis as well as the basic framework in the formulation of the LIIC using the template being provided by the Board of Investments.

He emphasized that coming up with an investments and incentives code is one important thing to indicate the business friendly policy of the local government unit.

Matabaran, however stressed that the most crucial is the actual ground implementation of the vital provisions like the operationalization of an investment promotion office that will execute various investment promotion programs, projects and activities of the municipality among others.

It was agreed during the briefing that the Ways and Means Committee of the Sangguniang Bayan wil look into some important provisions of the draft biodiversity streamlined investment code which also is a required deliverables of the Biodiversity Partnership Project implemented by the Lake Mainit Development Alliance.

“They have to see to it that the LIIC has to be consistent with the economic development direction of the municipality as reflected in their Municipal Comprehensive Development Plan and the Municipal Comprehensive Land Use Plan,” said Matabaran. (DTI-SDN/PIA-Surigao del Norte)

10 AgSur ARBOs gather for CONVERGE project consultation

By Rechel D. Besonia

SAN FRANCISCO, Agusan del Sur, Dec. 12 (PIA) – A total of 10 Agrarian Reform Beneficiaries Organization (ARBO) within the VETREBUNS ARC Cluster comprising the municipalities of Veruela, Trento, Bunawan and Sta. Josefa, all from this province attended the Farmers Consultation for Convergence on Value Chain Enhancement for Growth and Empowerment (CONVERGE) Project held recently at the HGC Tourist Inn here.

“I would like to thank the presence of different ARBOs for giving time to attend this activity. We are lucky that our province was also chosen as one of the recipient of this project. I hope that we will be able to successfully implement the program,” PARPO II Leoncio C. Bautista said during his message.

The Project ConVERGE is a rural development project that seeks to increase the income and productivity of farmers in Western, Northern Mindanao and CARAGA Region. It aims to reduce poverty incidence and the vulnerability of farmers through crop diversification and processing of raw materials to increase farm income, productivity and competitiveness of farmers.

The activity was attended by Jon Mercader, a consultant from International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD), a specialized agency of the United Nations dedicated to eradicate rural poverty in developing countries.

“ConVERGE project aims to promote sustainable livelihood activities based on key commodities of Mindanao regions such as rice, rubber, coffee and cassava.” Mercader said. (DAR-Agusan del Sur/PIA-Agusan del Sur)

Cebuano News: AgNor mopirma og Deed of Donation tali GIZ COSERAM

Ni Aimee B. Sienes-Sajor

BUTUAN CITY, Dis. 12 (PIA) - Makadawat ang probinsya sa Agusan del Norte og 12 ka unit ka brand new nga GPS Oregon 650 ug duha ka unit Toshiba TECRA CSO-8108E laptop gikan sa GIZ Conflict Sensitive Resource and Asset Management (COSERAM) Program alang sa implementasyon sa proyekto nga Enhancing the Capacities of the Provincial, City and Municipal Planning Teams and Conflict Sensitive Resource Management in the Province.

Gihatagan og otoridad bag-ohay pa lamang sa Sangguniang Panlalalwigan sa Agusan del Norte si Provincial Governor Ma. Angelica Rosedell M. Amante-Matba aron sa pagpirma sa Deed of Donation tali sa probinsya ug sa GIZ COSERAM alang sa maong paghatag sa GPS ug laptops pinaagi sa Sanggunian Resolution No. 046-2016, nga gipangamahanan ni Provincial Board Member Aquino W. Gambe.

Ang maong Deed of Donation kinahanglanon kini isip basehan sa donor, ang GIZ COSERAM, nga epektibong mabalhin ang maong mga GPS ug laptop ngadto sa probinsya alang sa planning ug mga programa sa probinsya, mga munisipyo ug syudad sa lalawigan. (LGU-Agusan del Norte/PIA-Agusan del Norte)

Cebuano News: Agusan del Norte mananaog sa Annual National Quality Corn Achievers Award

Ni Ricellen B. Retiquez

BUTUAN CITY, Dis. 12 (PIA) - Gideklara nga 'hall of famer' ang Agusan del Norte sa corn production tungod sa tulo ka tuig ang lalawigan nahimong provincial awardee sa Annual National Quality Corn Achievers Award.

Karong tuiga, ang ika 12th Philippine National Corn Congress gihimo niadtong Nobyembre 15-18, 2016 didto sa The Farm @ Carpenter Hill, Koronadal City, South Cotabato, nga nagdala sa tema nga  “Sulong Maisan; Sapat na Pagkain ng Bayan.“ Upat ka laing probinsya nakadawat sa samang pasidungong sama sa: Pangasinan, Ilocos Sur (Rehiyon 1), Nueva Vizcaya (Rehiyon 2) ug Zamboanga (Rehiyon 9).

Personal nga gidawat sa inahan sa lalawigan, Gobernador Ma. Angelica Rosedell Amante –Matba, ang ganti uban ni Bise Gobernador Ramon AG. Bungabong og Sangguniang Panlalawigan Members Elizabeth Marie R. Calo, Lucia E. Jundis, Dick Victor B. Carmona, Virgilio R. Escasiñas Jr. ug Benjamin D. Lim. Gidawat nila ang plake ug kantidad nga lima ka milyon ka pesos isip ganti sa maong pasidungong.

Sa samang higayon, gidawat ni Alvin P. Aclan ang plake ug kantidad nga 60 mil pesos isip Outstanding Provincial Agriculturist sa nasod ug ni Oscar S. Tuyor ang plake ug kantidad nga 50 mil pesos isip Outstanding Provincial Corn Coordinator sa nasod.

Atol sa maong programa gipasundayag ang success stories kalabot sa 4th NQCAA’s, diin apil niini ang video kuha sa Baranggay EG Montilla ug Pinaanan pulos sakop sa lungsod sa Las Nieves nga maoy pilot area sa corn production sa lalawigan. (LGU-Agusan del Norte/PIA-Agusan del Norte)

Friday, December 9, 2016

Media, CSOs to convene with DTI Caraga officials

By Jennifer P. Gaitano

BUTUAN CITY, Dec. 9 (PIA) – The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Caraga officials led by regional director Brielgo Pagaran will be convening partners from the media and civil society organizations (CSOs) for a briefing on December 15, 2016 at Almont Hotel’s Inland Resort, this city.

Dir. Pagaran bared that they will be presenting their department’s accomplishments for 2016 and some recent updates on the key programs and services. “An open forum will follow right after the presentation of reports,” he said.

Pagaran added that the briefing will serve as a venue to inform the media group, the schools and the CSOs about their agency’s activities and initiatives for the year. (JPG/PIA-Caraga)

BSP-Agusan council readies for ‘2016 Scouts Jamboree’

By Venus L. Garcia

BUTUAN CITY, Dec. 9 (PIA) – In celebration of this year’s 80th Charter Anniversary of the Boy Scouts of the Philippines (BSP), the Agusan Council gears up for the hosting of the 2016 Scouts Jamboree to be held at the BSP Jamboree Site, Alubihid, Buenavista, Agusan del Norte on December 14-19, 2016.

According to council scout executive Reynaldo Cocon, Jr., the grand opening ceremonies will commence through a splendid parade of the delegates, accompanied by the Buenavista drum and bugle corps. “The recognition of contingents and delegation officials and a simultaneous raising of the contingent flags by the BSP district commissioners and institutional heads will then take place also,” said Cocon.

Butuan City Mayor Ronnie Vicente Lagnada is expected to give his message as the keynote speaker and being an Eagle Scout recipient.

The organizer gets their ducks in a row wherein several activities are already lined up to make the event more meaningful and memorable. Among of these are ‘Kagitingan’ fun run, trail biking, Agusan river journey, sumba/taeboo, youth forum, aquatic/coastal clean-up, scouts build (Rovers immersion), adventure trail, scout mountaineering, backpacking, emergency preparedness, campfires, ‘daygon’ contest, scout pasiklaban, showcasing of talents, fancy drill showdown, palarong pinoy, jambo fiesta, skill o-rama, cultural street dancing, peace rally/candle lighting, and a holy mass.

The 80th milestone which is anchored on the theme, “Celebrating 80 Years of Growth and Stability”, seeks to equip young people and volunteer leaders with the skills, knowledge, motivation, and opportunities to face global challenges as they endeavor for sustainable development.

Around 1,500 campers will be joining the council-wide Scouts Jamboree, added Cocon. (VLG/PIA-Caraga)

Young Surigaonons make waves in the Youth Development Convergence in Caraga

By Susil D. Ragas

SURIGAO CITY, Surigao del Norte, Dec. 9 (PIA) - The first ever Youth Development Convergence event in Caraga region dubbed “Para sa karadjawan: Jari na kami! (For development: We are here!) kicked-off on December 3, 2016 held at the Provincial Sports Complex, this city.

The successful whole day event which aimed to signify the willingness of the youth to be part of the development of Surigao was spearheaded by the Provincial Economic Enterprise Development and Management Office (PEEDMO) headed by Graciela Mante, a Spring 2016 Young Southeast Asian Leaders Initiative (YSEALI) professional fellow whose placement was in Cook County Bureau of Economic Development in Chicago, Illinois and a mentor for Economic Development for the YSEALI  Alumni Mentoring Program through Leadership and Influence to the Filipino Youth (AMPLIFY).

Mante said the event aspired to empower the youth in the pillars of education, environment, economic empowerment, civic governance, sports, wellness, tourism, arts, history and culture. She added that the youth-led event featured 18 different activities consisting of lectures and workshops, jobs fair, fire drill, live band concert, variety show, business mentoring, bloodletting, free massage and haircut services and sports and wellness clinics on yoga, frisbee, crossfit, zumba and weightlifting.

She said there were also missions and volunteer recruitment booths, food and merchandise booths and information booths from the academic community. Lectures consist of talks on basic photography, Surigaonon language, business experiences from young entrepreneurs, financial literacy and international scholarship opportunities. As a culmination of the event, live bands concert and variety show were done featuring local youth talents. It was participated by eight bands and 15 performing groups comprising of students and out-of-school youth.

“The Jari na Kami event also celebrated the 3rd anniversary of YSEALI YOUnified and joined the ASEAN community in simultaneous conduct of youth events all over the region. Launched in 2013 by President Barrack Obama, YSEALI nurtures youth development in Southeast Asia through various leadership programs, grants and exchanges.  The YSEALI YOUnified Surigao activity is considered as one of the grandest celebrations which gathered around 1,500 participants, 100 youth volunteers, 150 performers and 40 agencies,” Mante underlined.

Mante explained that Jari na Kami aspired to revitalize youth volunteerism and ignite the zeal of the youth in carrying out their mission in the development of their communities and is made possible thru the Provincial Government of Surigao del Norte, in partnership with the YSEALI Program of the US Embassy and Events Factory, and in convergence with the academe, national line agencies, civic society organizations, the business sector and other private companies and individuals.

“This event was organized by the youth leaders and youth volunteers of Surigao and is the first of the series of youth development initiatives which will be implemented in the following months,“ remarked Mante. (SDN-PEEDMO/PIA-Surigao del Norte)

POPCOM Caraga launches 'KATROPA on Hardcourt'

By May Ann O. Escobal

BUTUAN CITY, Dec. 9 (PIA) – Kalalakihang Tumutugon sa Responsibilidad at Obligasyon sa Pamilya or KATROPA on Hardcourt was launched recently by the Commission on Population-Caraga in six different venues in Agusan del Norte and this city.

KATROPA on Hardcourt is an advocacy for men in another platform through an open commercial basketball tournament for known players and commercial teams in the region. It is also a contribution to emerging initiatives to mobilize men as partners in women empowerment and gender equality.

Director Alexander A. Makinano underlined the significance of this new advocacy for it increased male involvement advocating and championing maternal, neonatal and child health and nutrition and responsible parenting. The official added that before the tournament started, KATROPA sessions on the involvement of men on responsible parenting and family planning were conducted.

POPCOM hopes that this new advocacy will be replicated throughout Caraga to intensify the campaign of male involvement in responsible parenthood and family planning. (POPCOM-Caraga/PIA-Agusan del Norte)

DAR AgNor, stakeholders empower abaca producers

By Gil E. Miranda

BUTUAN CITY, Dec. 9 (PIA) - The Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR) in Agusan del Norte conducted a Provincial Multi-Stakeholder Consultation and Complementation Workshop in pursuing the implementation of Project Converge on Value Chain Enhancement for Rural Growth and Empowerment (ConVERGE) held on December 6-7, 2016 in this city.

Participants were from government partner agencies, who relayed their expert views of their programs and services. 

Farmer groups from TUJAKITSAN (Tubay, Jabonga, Kitcharao and Santiago) cluster shared their experiences and practical solutions to extend several approaches to make their proposed project be viable.

The Provincial Project Management Office Team headed by Provincial Agrarian Reform Program Officer (PARPO) Andre B. Atega  facilitated in capturing factual information from the farmer groups whose proposed project, the Abaca Value Chain, is still in project validation stage.

The project covers TUJAKITSAN cluster comprising 23 groups of farmers. Beyond TUJAKITSAN cluster, but part of the abaca network, are the municipalities of RTR and Cabadbaran whose farmer groups also participated in the Abaca Value Chain Project.

Planning Officer Annelyn Chan said that the Provincial Management Implementing Team is set to begin the implementation of the program aiming to uplift the lives of the farmers of TUJAKITSAN cluster.

“Project ConVERGE offers change and hope to farmer-beneficiaries who are involved in abaca production in the province. It is a hope for higher income and change in mindset and attitude from production to value addition. The project is focused on poverty alleviation,” Chan said.

“The Project ConVERGE is a multi-million project funded by International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD) under the support services component of the Department of Agrarian Reform. (DAR-Agusan del Norte/PIA-Agusan del Norte)

Local leaders vow to support RPRH law

By May Ann O. Escobal

BUTUAN CITY, Dec. 9 (PIA) – Series of orientation-briefing of the Population Agenda of President Rodrigo Roa Duterte was conducted by the Commission on Population among the barangay captains, Sangguniang Panlungsod and Sangguniang Bayan Committee Chair on Health/Social Services from the Provinces of Dinagat Islands, Surigao del Sur District 2, Surigao del Norte mainland and the City of Surigao, respectively, to fully implement the Responsible Parenthood and Reproductive Health Law (RPRH).

This initiated advocacy and communication strategy of POPCOM aimed at building awareness among these local leaders and program partners on population concerns and reproductive health and to draw full support from them in the full implementation of the said law at their level.

Director Alexander A. Makinano of POPCOM Caraga reiterated that the Republic Act 10354 or the RPRH Law was enacted for all Filipinos to exercise their rights, including the right to decide freely and responsibly on their desired number and spacing of children, within the context of responsible parenthood, informed choice and voluntarism, and to access needed for reproductive health care information and services.

POPCOM founded its advocacy to local officials on the DILG Memorandum Circular 2015-145 reiterating the roles and responsibilities of the local government units on the localization of the RPRH Law.

The Duterte Administration’s 10-point socio-economic agenda includes, among others, the strengthening of RPRH implementation to enable poor couples to make informed choices on family planning. (POPCOM-Caraga/PIA-Caraga)

More than 2,000 Caraga OFWs, families join the 2016 OFW Family Day

By Sheamin Lae C. Dogmoc

BUTUAN CITY, Dec. 9 - The Overseas Filipino Workers (OFW) Family Day annual celebration with the theme, “Pamilyang OFW: Matatag na Pamilya sa Panahon ng Pagbabago”, was embraced with excitement and vibe spearheaded by the Overseas Workers Welfare Administartion (OWWA) Caraga held at the Lope A. Asis Memorial Gymnasium, Bayugan City.

Notwithstanding the unfriendly weather, the presence of 2,656 participants, around 1,156 attendees more than the targeted 1,500, set a very festive atmosphere to the celebration. To shoot up to the cheerful vibe all the more, each municipality and OFW Family Circle was called out to cheer their hearts out for their organization.

OWWA administrator Hans Leo Cacdac, in his written message delivered by Director Samuel Madrid, emphasized how the event served as a manifestation of the government’s highest gratitude to the OFWs and their families. “Isa lamang itong pagpapatunay na oo, ang gobyernong ito ay may “pakialam” sa damdamin ng bawat pamilyang OFW at sa araw na ito isang malaking kasiyahan na makasama kayong lahat,” read Director Madrid.

One of the highlights of the gathering was the OFW Dance Competition, where a total of six contestants coming from different OFW Family Circle competed for the title. The contest brought excitement and entertainment to the audience as they displayed their talents in their creative costumes and unique choreography. In the end, the ADKIN OFW and Dependents Association of Tago, Surigao del Sur brought home the prize and the title, with the United OFW and Dependents of Bislig City landing in second place and the United OFW and Dependents Association in Carmen bagging third.

A number of raffle draw prizes including cash prize of P5,000, three microwave ovens and three bicycles were also given away to the lucky winners. Electronic Items, sacks of rice and grocery items were also given away, along with the goodies brought by corporate partners. Adding more fun to the event especially the little children, parlor games were also initiated by LBC, one of the corporate partners and PhilHealth Caraga that gave away fun and prizes to the participants especially the youngsters. While many activities were being done, a simultaneous free pampering booth which included body massage, facial massage, and haircut were also provided to the participants who want to relax.

Government partners, Pag-IBIG and Philhealth were provided with booths where they introduced and offered their services to the OFWs. Corporate partners, Camella Homes Butuan, Ford Butuan, Hyundai-Butuan, Motortrade Bayugan, Tanduay Distillers, Inc., Filinvest, Insular Life Philippines, Sunlife Insurance, B-Meg and Caraga Association of Recruitment Agencies (CARA) also entertained clients in the area.

During his talk, OWWA Regional Director Samuel S. Madrid stressed out the importance of linkage and partnership with local government units in an even more efficient delivery of service to the clientele. He also extended his gratitude to all the PESO managers and municipal mayors and the OFWs themselves who responded to his invitation in this year’s OFW Family Day. (OWWA-Caraga/PIA-Agusan del Sur)

Cebuano News: P7.3 M road project sa Cabadbaran aprobado na

Ni Aimee B. Sienes-Sajor

CABADBARAN CITY, Agusan del Norte, Dis. 9 (PIA) – Giapbrobahan bag-ohay pa lamang ni Provincial Governor Ma. Angelica Rosdell M. Amante-Matba ang implementasyon sa proyektong imprastraktura nga Rehab Plus/Improvement of Comagascas-del Pilar-Pirada Provincial Road sa syudad sa Cabadbaran, ning probinsya nga adunay kinatibuk-ang kantidad nga P7,337,470.27 nga gipundohan ubos sa Motor Vehicles Users Charge (MVUC).

Gihatagan og prayoridad ni Gov. Angel ang maong proyekto aron mahatag ang basic facility ngadto sa barangay pinaagi sa hapsay ug kombinyente nga dalan paingon sa sentro sa syudad ug mga sikbit nga silingan nga mga sityo sa barangay. Kini subay sa tumong ug mandato sa local nga panggahanan ng makahatag og nag-unang mga serbisyo ug infrastructure development program sa probinsya.

Pinaagi sa Sanggunian Resolution N0. 028-2016, nga gipangahamanan ni Vice  Governor Ramon AG. Bungabong, gihatagan og otoridad sa Sangguniang Panlalawigan sa Agusan del Norte si Gob. Angel aron mopirma sa Contract Agreement tali Reyrose Construction and Supply alang sa daling implementasyon sa maong proyekto sa dalan. (LGU-Agusan del Norte/PIA-Agusan del Norte)

Cebuano News: Programang Agrikultura gipalapdan sa probinsya

Ni Aimee B. Sienes-Sajor

BUTUAN CITY, Dis. 9 (PIA) - Sa tumong nga mapalambo pa og mapalapdan ang programang pang-agrikultura, padayon ang local nga panggamhanan sa Agusan del Norte sa maayo nga koneksyon sa Deparment of Agriculture (DA) aron mo-usbaw pa ang animal production ug agriculture production og makadawat kini og mga donasyon gikan sa DA.

  

Gihatagan og otoridad sa Sangguniang Panlalawigan sa Agusan del Norte bag-ohay pa lamang si Provincial Governor Ma. Angelica Rosedell M. Amante-Matba pinaagi sa Sanggunian Resolution No. 053-2016, aron sa pagpirma sa Deed of Donation tali Department of Agriculture aron maka-avail sa duha ka unit nga seminar-air tight canvass-lined seed storage (SACLOB) nga adunay kapasidad nga 1 metric (50 bags at 20 kgs/bag).

Sa laing bahin, lain pa usab nga Sangguinian Resolution No. 054-2016, nga gipangamahan ni provincial board member Virgilio R. Escasinas, Jr., ang naghatag otoridad kang Gov. Amante-Matba aron pagpirma sa Deed of Donation tali sa DA kabahinan sa paghatag og six head swine, five heads gilt ug one head boar isip breeders stocks sa probinsya.

  

Sa deliberasyon atol sa committee meeting sa Committee on Cooperative, Community Organization, Agrarian Reform, Agriculture and Indigenous People’s concern, diin tsirman si PBM Ecsasinas, Jr. nasayran nga ang terms and conditions sa donasyon pareho nga nauyonan sa  mga partido ug ang probinsya adunay katungod ug interest sa pagpanag-iya sa mga donasyon ug libre kini sa tanan liens ug encumbrances, mao nga mirekomenda kini nga i-authorize ang provincial governor aron sa pagpirma sa deeds of donation kay subay man kini sa development agenda sa probinsya partikular na sa probinsya.

Sa deliberasyon atol sa committee metting sa Committee on Cooperative, Community Organizations, Agrarian Reform, Agriculture and Indigenous People’s Concern, diin tsirman si PBM Escasinas, Jr., nasayran nga ang terms and conditions sa donasyon pareho ng nauyonan sa mga partido ug ang probinsya adunay katungod ug interest sa pagpanag-iya sa ,ga donasyon ug libre kini sa tanan liens ug encumbrances, mao nga mirekomenda kini nga i-authorize ang provincial governor aron sa pagpirma sa deeds of donation kay subay man kini sa development agenda sa probinsya partikular na sa agrikultura. (LGU-Agusan del Norte/PIA-Agusan del Norte)